Many of the best vineyards in Wine Country don't actually have signs, and they're only accessible to in-the-know locals. If you want to explore the very best of wine country like a true local, check out Behind the Gates Tours, which will show you only the most well-respected vineyards.

This tour gives you access to the small, family-owned wineries located off the beaten path. Many of these usually require an appointment, so you're getting a special glimpse behind the scenes of an independent winery. Many of these tours even offer complimentary cheese and other snacks, as well as the finest reds, whites and sangrias.

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